A new project to strengthen links between Christian and Muslim communities in Bradford has risen from the ashes of the summer riots.

The Bradford Afghan Appeal was being launched today in Centenary Square as a joint venture uniting different cultures in the city to help people in trouble-torn Afghanistan.

It is hoped businesses, schools and youth and faith groups will set up fundraising ventures tow-ards a common objective.

The idea was born during a meeting between the Bishop of Bradford and Bradford Council for Mosques following an attack on St Philip's Church in Girlington.

The Venerable Guy Wilkinson, Archdeacon of Bradford, said the community wanted to show positive relationships between religions.

"In the aftermath of the trouble we had a meeting with the local community and the Muslim community as well as the headteachers from two primary schools and the youth service," he said.

"There were a number of suggestions about how to bring something good out of that bad event and that is where this idea emerged."

Pupils in many of the city schools are already dreaming up imaginative money-making events and individual donations can be made with gift aid forms ensuring every penny counts. The funds will be channelled through Islamic Relief, CAFOD and Christian Aid to pay for an irrigation project in a drought-ridden part of the country and a school rebuilding project.

Michael Fairclough, co-ordinator of Christian Aid in Yorkshire, said the money could make a real difference.

"Many people in Afghanistan will benefit and we'll get a glimpse of the warm and co-operative relationship that exists between the majority of Christians and Muslims in Bradford," he said.

The Reverend Tony Tooby, who was attacked by youths at St Philip's Church said he hoped it would lead to lasting relationships between the church and the community.

"It is very important people - especially Christians, Muslims and young people - work together to give Bradford some good news. I think this is a small stepping stone which could open doors for lasting relationships to be built and we can hopefully avoid situations like the riots and the problems at my church."

Ishtiaq Ahmed, secretary of the Bradford Council for Mosques, said: "We feel it would be a nice gesture for Bradford, as a multi-faith community, to show unity for a humanitarian cause. It is important for us to set aside differences and work for a common cause whether here or international. We hope to reach a level of understanding and respect through different communities coming together."

Donations can be sent to Bradford Afghan Appeal, 47-51 Carlisle Road, Bradford BD8 8BE with cheques payable to Bradford Afghan Appeal.

For Gift Aid Declaration Forms and details call (01274) 481123.